US Senators Lindsey Graham and Richard Blumenthal have proposed legislation that would impose sanctions on Russia if it fails to engage in talks or undermines Ukraine's sovereignty after any peace deal, as part of a rare bipartisan effort in Congress. The bill comes amid growing tensions between President Donald Trump and Moscow over a wider agreement to end the war in Ukraine.
https://www.asiaone.com/world/us-senators-push-sanctions-if-russia-stalls-ukraine-peace-effortsIsrael announced it will eliminate all tariffs on imports from the US, with the move seen as a diplomatic gesture rather than an economic one. The remaining tariffs, primarily on agricultural goods, amount to about $11.4 million per year. The decision comes ahead of US President Donald Trump's expected announcement of new tariffs affecting all trade partners. The reduction in tariffs is aimed at strengthening strategic relations between Israel and the US, potentially reducing the cost of living in Israel.
https://www.ndtv.com/world-news/donald-trump-tariffs-reciprocal-tariffs-april-2-tariffs-us-tariffs-india-others-brace-for-impact-as-trumps-tariff-liberation-day-dawns-8064397#pfrom=home-ndtv_topscrollBaruah and Glenn Stevens Jr., executive director of MichAuto, have asked US officials to pause tariffs on auto parts complying with the US-Mexico-Canada trade agreement. They also advised against levying tariffs on vehicles made outside Mexico and Canada, as well as parts produced outside North America.
https://www.rawstory.com/trump-tariffs-2671655588/European countries are seeking clarity on US security priorities and intentions, particularly regarding its stance on Russia, following Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth's warning that the US is shifting focus to Asia and its own borders. NATO allies want a roadmap for future troop withdrawals and nuclear weapon deployments in Europe, as they believe the alliance's deterrent effect relies heavily on US firepower. The Biden administration has deployed around 100,000 US troops across the continent, with some 20,000 personnel potentially being withdrawn from Ukraine since Russia's invasion three years ago. NATO leaders are expected to raise their military budget goal from 2% to over 3% at their June summit, amid concerns that reduced spending would be unjustified if Russia is no longer seen as a top threat.
https://apnews.com/article/nato-rubio-trump-ukraine-russia-greenland-8b0d417cb43f9935532916f0b72cbf30The National Unity Government (NUG) of Myanmar has urged the international community to deliver humanitarian aid directly to earthquake victims, warning that any attempts by the military junta to divert or obstruct assistance will have devastating consequences. The NUG's call comes after the country's military leader, Min Aung Hlaing, stated on the day of the earthquake that Myanmar would accept outside help. However, human rights monitor Tom Andrews has emphasized the need for an immediate halt to military attacks to facilitate aid delivery, saying "The focus in Myanmar must be on saving lives, not taking them."
https://africanews.com/2025/04/01/survivors-still-being-found-from-myanmar-earthquake/The China International Supply Chain Expo, co-organized by the China Council for the Promotion of International Trade (CCPIT) and the Brazil-China Business Council, brought together over 100 delegates from trade agencies, chambers, and companies. Ren Hongbin led a delegation of 40+ companies, including major sectors such as agriculture, finance, and telecommunications, to engage in strategic talks with Brazilian government officials and business leaders while exploring collaborative opportunities.
https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/china-brazil-economic-and-trade-forum-convenes-in-sao-paulo-strengthening-bilateral-ties-302417772.htmlGreg Timm, from PCB Global Trade Management, reports a 500% surge in call volume as companies seek guidance on tariffs' impact and potential trade options with European nations following the new president's stance on tariffs.
https://globalnews.ca/news/11110469/tariff-uncertainty-bc-logistics-firm-calls-concerned-companies/Tom Barrack, a veteran businessman and longtime Trump associate, highlighted Türkiye's strategic importance in regional security during his Senate Foreign Relations Committee confirmation hearing. Türkiye maintains one of NATO's largest militaries and naval fleets, and has been a valued partner in the fight against ISIS. The country supports Ukraine through drone supplies and mediation of the Black Sea Grain Initiative, while managing the Istanbul and Canakkale Straits under the Montreux Convention to block warship passage during times of war. Barrack expressed confidence in reaching a $100 billion trade target with Türkiye, citing energy partnerships as a counterbalance to China's Belt and Road Initiative. However, he also acknowledged the YPG's designation as a terror group by the US and Türkiye, which has been responsible for over 40,000 deaths during its 40-year campaign against Türkiye.
https://www.hurriyetdailynews.com/trumps-pick-for-envoy-to-turkiye-stresses-countrys-strategic-role-207582Russian envoy to meet Donald Trump, amid efforts for an unconditional ceasefire in the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has expressed readiness for a ceasefire, while US President Donald Trump is set to meet with Russian envoy to discuss possible peace talks.
https://www.livemint.com/news/world/russiaukraine-war-russian-envoy-to-meet-donald-trump-zelensky-ready-for-unconditional-ceasefire-10-updates-11743559136382.html